top of page

Back to Basics: Power/Energy


Welcome to the third installment of our Back to Basics series! In Episode 228 of the Casual Preppers Podcast, we tackle one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of preparedness: power and energy. When the grid goes down, will you be ready to keep the lights on, stay warm, and stay connected? Let’s dig into the highlights from the episode.


Power and Energy for Preppers

Why Power Matters

Power keeps everything running — from communication devices and medical equipment to heating and cooking appliances. Without it, everyday tasks become survival challenges. Whether it’s staying warm during a blizzard, keeping your food refrigerated, or charging critical devices, energy preparedness ensures you’re ready for anything.

One key takeaway? Power isn’t just about convenience; it’s about survival and morale. Even a small flashlight or a charged radio can make a world of difference when the world goes dark.



How Much Power Do You Need?

Start by determining your essential energy needs. Lights, communication devices, basic heating, and refrigeration (if you have medications or perishable food) top the list. But remember, not everything is a priority in a grid-down situation. For example, entertainment systems like TVs or gaming consoles should take a back seat.

By calculating how much power your essentials require and how long you’ll need to run them, you can better plan your backup systems, whether it’s a solar generator, battery bank, or gas-powered unit.


Backup Power Options

  • Battery Banks: Compact, portable, and perfect for small devices like phones or radios.

  • Power Stations: Larger, versatile battery systems capable of powering small appliances.

  • Generators: Gas, dual-fuel, or solar — each has its pros and cons. Gas generators provide high wattage but require fuel and maintenance, while solar generators are clean and quiet but dependent on sunlight.

  • Alternative Power Sources: Hand-crank devices, pedal-powered generators, and even small wind or water turbines can add variety and redundancy to your power plan.


Solar Power Basics

Solar energy is a favorite among preppers because it’s renewable and silent. Portable panels are great for charging small devices on the go, while fixed solar setups can provide whole-home solutions when paired with proper battery storage. Just be mindful of the drawbacks: solar panels depend on weather, require space, and can be costly upfront.


Energy Storage Tips

Storing energy is just as important as generating it. Lithium-ion batteries are the gold standard for their efficiency and long lifespan, while alkaline batteries offer affordability and availability for single-use needs. No matter what type you use, store them safely at room temperature, avoid extreme conditions, and regularly check charge levels.


Managing Your Power Wisely

Power prioritization is key in an emergency. Focus on essentials like lighting, communication, and heating, and avoid wasting energy on non-critical items. Using energy-efficient devices, unplugging phantom loads, and planning tasks around peak power availability can help you stretch your resources further.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Over-Reliance on a Single Power Source: Diversify your options. Don’t put all your faith in just a generator or solar setup. Redundancy is your friend.

  2. Underestimating Energy Needs: Test your setup before an emergency to ensure it can handle your requirements.

  3. Ignoring Maintenance: Keep your systems in top shape by regularly checking and testing them. Stock spare parts like fuses and cables.



Challenge for Listeners

Try a 4-hour “power outage test” at home. Turn off your power and see what gaps you discover. Is your lighting adequate? Are your devices charged? This simple exercise will help you identify weak points in your energy preparedness plan.


Power preparedness isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s about staying safe, connected, and comfortable when the unexpected happens. Start building or refining your plan today, and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.


For more on this, listen to our full episode!


Stay tuned for the next episode in our Back to Basics series: Bug Out Bags! And as always, Stay Survived.

Comments


Featured Posts
Recent Posts
Archive
Search By Tags
Follow Us
  • Facebook Basic Square
  • Twitter Basic Square
  • Instagram - White Circle
  • YouTube Social  Icon
bottom of page